From Bean to Cup: Innovations in Liberica Coffee Processing and Market Development in Sarawak, Malaysia ^†

Abstract

This presentation builds upon the Sarawak Liberica Refinement Project introduced at the 2023 International Coffee Convention (ICC), focusing on advancements in coffee preparation and business strategies. The study explores how Liberica coffee (Coffea liberica), known for its resilience in extreme climates, is being cultivated, processed, and marketed in the low-altitude equatorial tropical regions of Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia. The discussion will cover innovative processing methods adapted for the humid, hot environment of Sarawak, where annual rainfall exceeds 4000 mm. These techniques, developed in collaboration with hundreds of independent indigenous small plantation owners, are crucial in producing high-quality Liberica beans suitable for premium café offerings. The presentation will cover advancements in roasting techniques specifically tailored for Liberica coffee, highlighting how these methods enhance the unique flavor profile of this lesser-known species. This research illustrates how these roasting innovations contribute to creating the perfect café crème and other specialty coffee beverages, potentially opening new market opportunities for Liberica in the specialty coffee sector. The study will also explore the business aspects of Liberica coffee, including the following: (i) Market positioning strategies for Liberica and its by-products. (ii) Green bean market matching techniques. (iii) Crop economics and sustainability practices. (iv) The development of local coffee culture and its impact on business. The case studies of influential Liberica coffee plantations across Malaysia will be presented, including those utilizing the latest high-yield varieties developed by the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI). These examples will showcase how advancements in agronomy translate to improved business prospects and trends in the specialty coffee market. To provide a hands-on experience of these advancements, an on-site coffee cupping activity will be conducted featuring various Liberica varieties roasted and processed using optimized processing and roasting techniques. This will allow attendees to appreciate the quality improvements achieved through these innovations and understand their potential impact on the specialty coffee business.